Processes and machines suitable for producing polymer films, and films produced thereby. Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) particles and electrically conductive nanoparticles are combined in a liquid polymer precursor matrix and aligned along nanocolumns in a thickness direction of the polymer precursor matrix by subjecting the PZT and nanoparticles to a uniform electric field, after which the polymer precursor matrix is solidified to form a piezoelectric polymer composite film. The PZT and nanoparticles are subjected to the uniform electric field for a duration sufficient to promote sensitivity and/or energy harvesting properties of the piezoelectric polymer composite film.